Their restaurant stands as a living symbol of courage, identity, and cultural pride, an enduring testament to the strength and spirit of Sindhi girls in the heart of Rome.
By Abdullah Usman Morai | Sweden
Life, at times, presents moments that are not merely meant to be seen but to be deeply felt. While wandering through the ancient streets of the historic city of Rome, Italy, where every wall whispers a story of centuries past, we encountered a narrative that carried the familiar fragrance of our own soil.
Before bringing our journey in Rome to a close, we planned to meet two extraordinary Sindhi girls, Anoshi and her friend and business partner, Sarushka. In a foreign land, far from home, they have built a world of their own, carving out an identity through courage, relentless hard work, and the quiet yet powerful strength of their dreams.
From Kandhkot and Jacobabad to the Colosseum: A Journey Beyond Boundaries
Both young girls belong to the northern districts of Sindh, Kandhkot and Jacobabad. These regions are known for their rich cultural heritage and traditions, yet opportunities for girls to step onto the global stage remain limited.
In many parts of our society, girls are still confined within the four walls of their homes. To rise from such circumstances and establish a business in a foreign country is nothing short of extraordinary. It is not merely success; it is a statement.
Their journey proves a simple yet profound truth: when determination is strong, no destination is too distant.
Our own journey to meet them began near Vatican City. We boarded the metro from Ottaviano Station, changed trains at Termini, and got off at San Giovanni. From there, we walked through Rome’s enchanting streets, past timeless architecture, vibrant neighborhoods, and the rhythm of a living history until we finally reached their restaurant: Hungry Scholars.
Hungry Scholars: Sindhi Hospitality in the Heart of Rome
The name itself left an immediate impression. It carried a depth that went far beyond food. Hungry Scholars was not merely about satisfying hunger; it symbolized a deeper craving: for knowledge, for exploration, for learning, and for understanding the world.
In many ways, the name reflected their own lives.
Anoshi arrived even before the restaurant opened, just to greet us. Soon after, Sarushka joined. Their warmth, hospitality, and effortless smiles dissolved the distance between Rome and home. It did not feel like we were sitting in a restaurant; it felt like we were guests in a Sindhi home.
And where there are Sindhis, tea is never absent.
We were welcomed with traditional desi tea and biscuits, a simple gesture that carried profound meaning. Within moments, our travel fatigue melted away. That tea was not just a beverage; it was a bridge, connecting us to our homeland thousands of kilometers away.
From Education to Entrepreneurship: A Story of Determination
As conversations unfolded, we learned more about their inspiring journey. Both Anoshi and Sarushka studied at IBA Sukkur before moving to Rome to pursue higher education.
Studying abroad is, in itself, a formidable challenge, adapting to a new culture, language, and environment. But starting a business in a foreign country requires something far greater: resilience, courage, risk-taking, and an unwavering belief in oneself.
Their story is not just about success; it is about persistence in the face of uncertainty.
It stands as a powerful example for the youth, especially for the girls of Sindh, showing that ambition, when paired with effort, can transcend borders.
A Message for Girls: Spread Your Wings
Even today, many girls in our society see their dreams confined within the limits of their homes. Ironically, this is often true even for those who come from financially stable or well-off families. While resources may be available, freedom and encouragement are sometimes lacking.
Anoshi and Sarushka’s message is both simple and transformative:
Spread your wings, the world is far larger than you imagine.
If opportunities exist, seize them. If paths seem closed, create your own. Seek education, travel beyond familiar spaces, meet new people, and most importantly, build your own identity.
A Reflection for Families: Trust, Not Just Protection
This story is not only for daughters, but it is equally for parents and families.
Girls do not only need protection; they need trust, belief, and confidence.
Too often, families underestimate the potential of their daughters or limit their aspirations to traditional expectations, such as waiting for marriage. This narrative challenges that mindset, especially for financially stable families who have the means but may lack the vision.
If families support their daughters, trust their decisions, and encourage them to step forward, these young women can transform not only their own lives but also inspire an entire society.
Let your daughters spread their wings. Let them see the world. Allow them to study abroad, to explore, and to create their own identity.
Because when a daughter succeeds, it is not just her victory; it becomes a source of pride for the entire family, the community, and the nation.
Final Reflections: Beyond Fear, Toward Possibility
Life remembers those who dare to move beyond fear.
The journey of Anoshi and Sarushka teaches us a powerful lesson: dare to dream and then pursue those dreams with relentless dedication.
Open your wings, and you will discover that the world is far greater, richer, and more expansive than you ever imagined.
The time has come for girls to stop seeing themselves as limited and for parents to guide their daughters toward the world, not away from it.
Because when a girl rises, she does not rise alone; she lifts her family, her community, and society as a whole.
A Note for Travelers
And if you ever find yourself in Rome, make sure to visit Hungry Scholars.
There, you will not only enjoy good food but also experience something far more meaningful: the warmth of Sindhi hospitality, a sense of belonging, and a connection to home, thousands of kilometers away.
This restaurant stands as a living symbol of courage, identity, and cultural pride, an enduring testament to the strength and spirit of Sindhi girls in the heart of Rome.
Read: Democracy of Time, Inequality of Practice
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Abdullah Soomro, penname Abdullah Usman Morai, hailing from Moro town of Sindh, province of Pakistan, is based in Stockholm Sweden. Currently he is working as Groundwater Engineer in Stockholm Sweden. He did BE (Agriculture) from Sindh Agriculture University Tando Jam and MSc water systems technology from KTH Stockholm Sweden as well as MSc Management from Stockholm University. Beside this he also did masters in journalism and economics from Shah Abdul Latif University Khairpur Mirs, Sindh. He is author of a travelogue book named ‘Musafatoon’. His second book is in process. He writes articles from time to time. A frequent traveler, he also does podcast on YouTube with channel name: VASJE Podcast.
